Differences in online health information source utilization and a mediation model of eHealth literacy, health behaviors, physical well-being, and quality of life among older adults in Israel

This study investigates online health information sources and eHealth literacy among older adults and explores a model examining mediating health behavior factors on the relationship between eHealth literacy, physical well-being, and quality of life in seniors. A cross-sectional design was employed using a convenience sample of 502 Israeli seniors aged 65 and above. The questionnaire comprised five sections: background characteristics, eHealth Literacy, Older People’s Quality of Life, Health Behavior Inventory, and physical well-being. Seniors primarily used Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), general Google searches, and official government health websites for online health information. No significant differences were found in eHealth literacy levels between seniors who used reliable sources and those who used unreliable sources. Structural equation modeling revealed that higher eHealth literacy was associated with better use of health resources, adherence to healthy diets, and improved physical well-being and quality of life. These health behaviors partially mediated the relationship between eHealth literacy and well-being outcomes. While seniors use a mix of reliable and unreliable online health information sources, eHealth literacy levels do not significantly differ based on source reliability. Higher eHealth literacy predicts better health behaviors such as the appropriate use of health resources and adherence to healthy diets, which, in turn, lead to improved physical well-being and quality of life.